Parkland, Washington – Driver Dies in Hit-and-Run Incident

Parkland, Washington (December 7, 2019) – A driver died in a hit-and-run incident that occurred on the intersection of Yakima Avenue South and 138th Street South on Saturday night. As of Sunday the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the victim to be Patricia Williamson. Police are currently looking for the causing driver.

The incident occurred before 9 p.m. According to the report, the incident was caused by a 1996 Econoline van, which struck a Ford Escape at the intersection, resulting in Williamson’s death. Deputies reported that the causing driver then moved items from his vehicle into a smaller van on the 138th Street South. The incident caused the roads in the area to be closed while investigation was ongoing.

About Vehicle Accidents

We offer our sympathies and compassion to the friends and loves ones of the victim. Unfortunately, this is not the only time an accident has resulted in a fatality. In 2017, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)  have reported a total of 120, 993 car accidents. Of those accidents, 525 were fatal and 34, 311 were possible or suspected of injuries. There are several types of collision that may happen, such as side collision, rollover collision, and head-on collision. Of the types of car accidents, head-on collisions are considered the most dangerous due to the circumstances – two cars are heading towards each other, with a great amount of force being experienced by all parties when the impact happens. While only 2% of car accidents are head-on collisions, they account for more than 10% of car-accident related injuries. These injuries are quite dangerous as most of them are head, spine or neck-related, including spinal injuries, brain injuries, paralysis, broken bones, and whiplash. Similarly, victims of side collisions and rollover collisions also suffer may also suffer head and neck injuries, though the risk is lower in these types of collisions. In rollover collisions, the car will come to rest on its side or roof, resulting in a dangerous situation which passengers might need to be extricated from. In side collisions, the greatest risk comes to the passenger on the particular side that received the impact. No matter the type of accident, all crashes are bound to cause a dreadful situation for all involved.

We urge all drivers to be careful while behind the wheel. When in a location where hazards such as poor illumination, rough roads or construction materials are present, be especially cautious. By doing this, we can ensure our safety as well as the safety of others in the nearby area.

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